Monday Memo No. 36

Three Christmas recipes to add to your grocery list now, my designer discount goldmine, the best online destination for last minute holiday shopping, killer white elephant gifts, the movie I can’t wait to see this week, and lots more!

The ultimate “what’s everyone bringing” recipe for people who can’t cook, this baked brie deliciousness is super easy, and I mean... it’s baked cheese, there’s nothing to discuss. Also, I’ve made it several times in the past and it’s always the absolute HIT of the hors d'oeuvre table. Pair with whatever crackers Trader Joe’s still has in stock, and you’ve officially contributed to the holiday party treats. Nice work.

You know what, I almost don’t even care if this Holiday Cheermeister Punch by Half Baked Harvest is delicious or not (it is), I would be happy just to stare at its beauty. Apart from taking its name from a must-watch holiday film (The Grinch with Jim Carrey, hello) it’s a bright and bubbly take on a holiday cocktail that you can prep ahead and make in large batches for guests. Because as cute as your cocktail shaker is, you don’t want it in your hand all night.

I want to speak from the heart about something: Chrissy Teigen’s Everything Bagel Casserole is quite possibly the world’s most necessary food. It’s essentially strata or bread pudding, but with everything bagels, veggies, cream cheese, and then more cheese. WHAT IS HAPPENING. Prep this the night before and absolutely WIN Christmas morning. Pro tip: the recipe makes a TON, so split it between two casserole dishes rather than overflow just one.

I’ve raved about The Outnet as my discount shopping goldmine in the past, but I recently scored so many insane goodies, I have to voice my thoughts again. Normally I’d wait until I’ve had the chance to actually wear these items and share outfit photos, but their deals are so good, I find time and time again the items are gone before I even have time to post. Here’s a rundown of what I bought:

Are you familiar with Simple Human Mirrors? Okay, well then let’s talk magic for a moment shall we? These mirrors have sensors that know what the lighting situation is around you, and light themselves to best mimic sunlight in that space. If your head just exploded, take a moment to put it back together, I’ll wait. This one is especially good for travel, and they’re all outstanding in wintertime, when natural light is hard to come by.

This time of year is the perfect time to remember that Shopbop is owned by Amazon, and if you have Amazon Prime, you can get your Shopbop purchase in two days, up until December 22nd, for free! I’d start with this cardigan, but that’s just me. Also, don't sleep on their gift section which has truly adorable items in all price ranges.

My friend Helena has raved about this bodysuit for well over a year, and I finally took the plunge. I GET IT NOW, HELENA. I really do. It is the perfect layering piece under everything, without the bulk around the waist area tucked in. Stalk her blog here for all the outfits she styles it with.

Fun fact: you don’t necessarily need new clothes for holiday festivities, as long as you have fun statement earrings. You may recall from Friday’s post that I’m currently obsessing over statement earrings. (It’s not just me, I’m quite sure the internet at large has been bitten by this bug, too.) It’s actually kind of amazing how much an outfit can transform given the right pair. Try it, I’m right.

Everyone loves to hate on White Elephant exchanges, but I think we all secretly love them. The tough part is finding a gift so good/hilarious that the entire party will literally fight over it to the point of knocking over the Xmas tree. This list is one of the best I’ve seen so far, so shop with confidence, and if it’s really cute, buy two. I call dibs on the shower wine glass holder.

If you can make it through the Mary Poppins Returns trailer without weeping like a toddler, I congratulate you. This extremely welcome sequel stars Emily Blunt, and I’ll be seeing it with my mom (and a box of tissues and Sour Patch Kids) over the holidays. It’s kind of the perfect “see a movie with family” movie when everyone has different tastes, you know? Buy tickets now because it will probably be sold out all Christmas break.

Oh my gosh! I wish I had seen this before we did our white elephant party last weekend! I literally burst out laughing at these. I am definitely stocking up on some of these for next year! Best. Gifts. Ever! (under $20 anyway!) Haahaa